Security fencing is primarily used by companies and state-backed organisations to protect their assets or prevent intrusion by unauthorised and dangerous individuals. However, fencing can also be used to protect the most vulnerable people in society. Hostels, refuges and residential homes for vulnerable individuals can all benefit from security fencing. In today’s blog, we’ll look at how perimeter fencing can help institutions like these and how it should be deployed. If you run a refuge, hostel or residence, you might be surprised by how useful this simple security measure can be.
1. Physical protection
Many people end up in refugees or hostels because of abuse. Fencing can be used to keep former abusers away from these buildings, especially at night when residents aren’t likely to be coming and going themselves. Meanwhile, some residences can attract disapprobation from hostile elements within the surrounding community. For example, mental health residences may be targeted because some of the residents may have behavioural difficulties. When properly installed, security fencing can stop even highly-motivated would-be intruders, as it is difficult to break through or climb over.
2. Protect Vulnerable Individuals with Psychological benefits
Security fencing doesn’t just protect vulnerable people from physical threats: if it is deployed properly, it can provide a sense of psychological security, too. It can make residence, hostel and refuge residents feel safer and help cultivate the belief that they are in a stable, emotionally protective environment. This is often very important for people who have been victimised or alienated in some way.
3. Giving residents access
Securing a hostel, refuge, or residence isn’t like securing company premises or government installation. The people who live there may have been stuck in repressive, controlling situations or struggle with independence. As a result, they must come and go freely, even while the fencing keeps others out. The best way to achieve this is to install an electronic security gate in the fencing perimeter that residents can use themselves and prevent unauthorised individuals from entering.
4. Allowing residents a sense of freedom
In addition to giving residents easy access to refuges, hostels and residences, it’s also important to make sure that they don’t feel trapped or claustrophobic. Therefore, the fencing perimeter should be several metres away from the premises.
Here at Zaun, we understand that security fencing is the right fit for every institution that protects vulnerable individuals. However, many hostels, refuges and residences could benefit from the protection offered by fencing. If you’re responsible to Protect Vulnerable Individuals, check out our range of fencing products today.